When it comes to digestive health, doctors often recommend tests that allow them to see inside the body. Two of the most common are EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) and endoscopy. While these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they are not the same. Knowing the difference can help patients better understand their diagnosis and treatment plan.
What Is an EGD Procedure?
An EGD, also called an upper endoscopy, is a test that looks at the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine).
- How it’s done: The patient is given a sedative for comfort. A thin, flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) is passed through the mouth and guided down into the upper digestive tract.
- What it shows: The doctor can see inflammation, ulcers, tumors, or other problems. Small tissue samples (biopsies) can be taken, and certain treatments, like removing growths or stopping bleeding, can be done during the same test.
Common reasons for an EGD include:
- Trouble swallowing
- Persistent heartburn or GERD
- Suspected ulcers
- Stomach or upper abdominal pain
- Unexplained weight loss or bleeding
What Is Endoscopy?
Endoscopy is a broader medical term. It refers to any procedure that uses a flexible tube with a camera to look inside the body. The exact name of the test depends on the part of the body being examined.
For digestive health, the most common types include:
- Upper endoscopy (EGD): Looks at the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum
- Colonoscopy: Examines the colon and rectum
- Sigmoidoscopy: Looks at the lower colon
- Enteroscopy: Used for deeper parts of the small intestine
Like EGD, patients are usually sedated, and doctors can both diagnose and treat certain conditions during the procedure.
Key Differences Between EGD and Endoscopy
- Scope of use:
- EGD is specific to the upper digestive tract.
- Endoscopy is a general term that includes EGD, colonoscopy, and other types.
- Conditions diagnosed:
- EGD is often used for GERD, ulcers, Barrett’s esophagus, or upper GI bleeding.
- Other endoscopy types can detect celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, colon cancer, polyps, and more.
- Entry point:
- EGD always goes through the mouth.
- Other endoscopies may go through the rectum (colonoscopy) or small incision (laparoscopy).
Choosing the Right Test
The decision between an EGD and another type of endoscopy depends on:
- Where the problem is suspected (upper GI tract vs lower GI tract)
- The patient’s symptoms
- The condition being investigated
Your gastroenterologist will explain which test is most appropriate and why.
Takeaway
Think of endoscopy as the category and EGD as one type within that category. If your doctor recommends one of these procedures, it’s usually because it offers the best way to see what’s happening inside your digestive system and, if needed, to begin treatment right away.